Sailing in New Zealand

Boats for rent in: New Zealand

New Zealand is situated in the Pacific Ocean, east of Australia and south of the islands of New Caledonia, Fiji and Tonga. It is comprised of two main islands, the North and the South, and has roughly 10,000 kilometers of coastline. New Zealand boasts untamed natural beauty like no other place on earth. It is home to high mountain ranges, dense forests and rugged tucked away beaches. The diverse and wild landscapes of the country attract nature lovers from all over the world; for bungee jumping, hiking, and of course sailing. This is the great outdoors at its best.

There are many opportunities for Yacht charter New Zealand on both the North and South islands. Auckland in the north is referred to as the ‘city of sails’ due to its maritime history, and is a good starting point from which to explore the Hauraki Gulf and its islands. Great Barrier Island, Waiheke Island and the Mercury Islands are popular sailing destinations in the gulf and host some flawless beaches. Further north near Pahia there is the Bay of Islands. This is another fantastic cruising ground with over 100 islands to explore. The Poor Knights Marine Reserve near the Bay is a superb site for snorkeling and scuba diving. Warm currents from the Coral Sea attract unique marine species and the volcanic rock formations create an amazing environment for diving. The South Island has a wilder, more extreme landscape full of enormous peaks and glaciers, and miles of valleys, lakes and forest. Milford Sound in the southwest of the island is a must see. Tall fjords tower above, and on calm days are mirrored in the glass like waters.

South east of Milford Sound near Queenstown is Glenorchy - Paradise Valley, an impressive mountain range in which you pass through the ‘Gateway to Paradise’. Wanaka is a great starting point for outdoor adventures, and is the best sky diving spot in the whole of New Zealand. Lake Wanaka is a perfect place to kayak amongst the epic scenery. On the northern tip of the South Island, the Marlborough Sounds are a good place for yacht charter. Many secluded beaches of golden sand can be found along the northern coast. The Marlborough region is famous for wine manufacture, and it is possible to tour the many vineyards by bike. The Abel Tasman National Park also has a splendid hiking trail along this stunning coast.

Sailing Routes New Zealand

The Bay of Islands is an incredible area, full of lush green islands and sandy beaches. Beginning your trip in the town of Paihia, you can do some shopping and perhaps enjoy a meal before setting sail. We suggest visiting Motuarohia Island first, where you can anchor at Twin Lagoons Bay, a lovely swimming spot and a unique bay... more

Airports nearby New Zealand

Auckland International Airport (AKL)

Christchurch International Airport (CHC)

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Climate & Weather in New Zealand

The charter season in New Zealand is between November and April. The summers are usually warm and pleasant. Sailing conditions in New Zealand are extremely varied due to the nature of the country. The Hauraki Gulf and The Bay of Islands on the north island are fairly sheltered sailing areas. However, the Tasman Sea on the west coast of New Zealand is ferocious with incredibly strong currents - sailing here is risky and dangerous. The weather in New Zealand can change rapidly from morning to afternoon, and we recommend obtaining local advice before embarking on a sailing trip and assessing the weather conditions carefully. New Zealand also has a high UV rating, and sun screen should be worn even on cloudy days.